Entrepreneurial intention of women employed in tourism: the role of bonding social capital, future anxiety, and risk-taking propensity

Women's involvement in entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth, especially in developing nations. This holds particular significance within the tourism industry. It is essential to gather data on the elements that impact the women's entrepreneurship ecosystem, particularly gender, access to resources, and networks. This study aims to evaluate the entrepreneurial intentions of women employed in the tourism industry, with a focus on social capital, risk-taking propensity, and future anxiety. For this purpose, data gathered from 401 female employees from the tourism industry was analysed using quantitative methods. The results demonstrate that entrepreneurial intention varies depending on education level, tourism education, and tenure in the industry. Bonding social capital is positively related to entrepreneurial intention. However, the relationship between bonding social capital and entrepreneurial intention is not moderated by future anxiety. Nonetheless, risk-taking propensity serves as a mediator in the link between bonding social capital and entrepreneurial intention. The intention of women to engage in entrepreneurship can result in taking more risks and displaying courageous behaviour, which may help alleviate specific concerns.